Hogan Hatten, at just 24, stands out among his peers from Idaho as one of only 32 individuals globally tasked with accurately delivering a football in the high-pressure environment of the National Football League.

While many of his recently graduated colleagues are starting their careers, Hatten is already making waves with the Detroit Lions, who recently beat the Seahawks.

From 2019 to 2023, Hatten served as a long snapper for the Idaho Vandals, also playing linebacker.

When he found out about the Lions’ bye week coinciding with Idaho’s homecoming festivities, he saw a perfect chance to return and connect with his roots.

This week, Hatten has been actively visiting former teammates and familiar spots around Moscow, recalling the vibrant atmosphere he enjoyed just a few months ago.

He’s eager to share insights on achieving ambitious goals.

“Driving through the city has allowed me to soak in the energy of being back,” he remarked. “There are memories here I will cherish forever.

”Hatten expressed deep gratitude for his coaches and the program, stating,

“I really wanted to come back and show my appreciation, and give the younger players a sense of how special this place is.

I want to connect with important faces and say ‘Thank you.’

”During practice, Hatten encouraged his former teammates, suggesting they could view him as a representation of what they could aspire to achieve.

He possesses a unique perspective, balancing experiences from both college football and the professional arena.

“The surprising part is that it’s not drastically different,” he noted.

“The stress level is just as intense. For these guys, making the team is their Super Bowl.

For me, it was playing in my first preseason game.”In the competitive world of the NFL, there’s a clear understanding: improvement is essential.

“If you’re not getting better, you’re getting pushed out of the league,” Hatten explained. Yet, the thrill of playing in the NFL is unparalleled.

“If you could bottle the feeling of running out of an NFL tunnel and sell it, it would fly off the shelves,” he added. “It’s the most exhilarating experience.

”Currently, Hatten is part of the Lions, who hold a strong 3-1 record.

“I feel fortunate to be in such a special situation,” he shared. “We might actually be one of the best teams in the league.

”Detroit is undergoing a transformation, emerging from a history marked by decline in manufacturing.

Hatten feels a sense of pride in representing a city that has worked hard to rebuild.

“The city takes pride in what they have accomplished and become,” he said.

“I believe the community sees the football team as a part of their identity.”In the Lions’ recent game against the Seahawks,

Hatten made his first NFL tackle, taking down punt returner Dee Williams.

While back in Moscow, he brought a jersey from that game to Marc Trivelpiece, owner of the Corner Club, a popular gathering spot for University of Idaho students that also showcases memorabilia from Vandals athletics.

Hatten negotiated to have his jersey framed and displayed alongside a plaque honoring the achievements of his brother, Hayden Hatten, an All-America player.

He humorously noted that his jersey was larger than the plaque, saying,

“The guy is a legend here. He can take me on in Idaho anytime.”During his homecoming, Hatten intends to fully enjoy the experience.

He plans to attend the traditional bonfire and is excited about the upcoming game against Northern Arizona, a team he faced four times as a Vandal. His loyalty is evident.

“There’s no team I want to beat more,” he declared.

They told my brother and me we weren’t good enough to play there.”As he navigates his pro football journey, Hatten is also embracing his new role as an alumnus.

“This will be my first bonfire as a fan,” he shared. “And my first game as a fan. Ultimately, we’re all fans at heart.

”Hatten’s visit illustrates his deep connections to Idaho and highlights his commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him.

His journey from a college player to an NFL rookie serves as an inspiration for current students and players, showing them that aspirations can lead to remarkable achievements.